Real Madrid without Bale, James, Ramos vs. Malmo but Jese passed fit

Gareth Bale, James Rodriguez and Sergio Ramos are still sidelined for Real Madrid's Champions League Group A clash at Malmo on Wednesday, but Jese Rodriguez is available again after a fitness scare.

Madrid's medical staff have been busy in recent weeks with Bale (calf), James (thigh) and Ramos (shoulder) all working on recoveries, while Danilo (knee) and Pepe (muscle injury) are also unavailable.

Speaking last week, coach Rafa Benitez said he was hopeful that at least some of his missing players would be back for the trip to Sweden, with the La Liga derbi at Atletico Madrid coming up on Sunday.

A club statement released after training on Monday had also raised hopes that Bale, James and Danilo were close to a return, however, none have been included in the travelling party announced for the trip to Malmo.

Better news for Benitez is that Jese, who was stretchered off during Saturday's 0-0 home draw with Malaga, has been passed fit and is able to travel in a squad which also includes youth players Marcos Llorente, 20, and Borja Mayoral, 18.

"Rafa Benitez has called up 20 players for the second Champions League group game, which is being played on Wednesday against Malmo at the Swedbank Stadium," Madrid's statement read.